Hey Coach Risley here, this week is all about helping you decide when and where common training gear is useful.
Lifting Straps
Pros: Aids reaching hypertrophy by reducing grip demands.
Cons: Reduces your desirability to train grip strength thus not getting as strong.
When To Buy: Work out for a few years in resistance training and build a baseline of grip strength before considering purchasing straps to aid in performance.
Lifting Belts
Pros: Aids in stability for a movement to develop higher force production.
Cons: The inability to use it correctly could be detrimental to progress and may even lead to instability.
When To Buy: Consider purchasing a belt when you have understood how to brace and create rigidity in the spine.
Knee Sleeves
Pros: Keeps the knee joint warm and allows for a more stable concentric movement.
Cons: Dependence on them slowly as you get used to the feeling.
When To Buy: if you have no existing knee problems and would like to have some extra compression for both feel and performance.
Heel-Elevated Shoes/Flat Shoes
Pros: Heels allow for easier ankle mobility and knee travel. Flat shoes keep you grounded better so you’ll be able to grip the floor better & they help with foot stability. Heel-elevated shoes are also great for quad hypertrophy too.
Cons: Heel-elevated/flat shoes could be the wrong purchase for you as they can feel off.
When To Buy: Try plate heel elevation before considering heels and training in socks before considering flat shoes.
Wrist Wraps
Pros: Wrist stability that can improve force production and also allow for a better grip as well.
Cons: Can hide a lot of issues in wrist and forearm weakness which can lead to inefficiencies in movements.
When To Buy: If you have wrist pain and discomfort, try working on strengthening your wrists and forearms first and get the area strong. Consider getting the wraps when you think it can aid in performance.
What is next on your lifting equipment wish list?
As always I’m here if you have any questions! And remember what doesn't challenge you, doesn't change you!
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